SpecTips: Recycling Existing Single-Ply Roofing Systems
When a single-ply roof system comes to the end of its life, there’s often very little consideration given to the disposal of the used materials. The most common disposal practice involves loading roofing waste into dumpsters and sending it off to a landfill. However, landfill space is at a premium and tipping fees and container rental costs are rising, causing waste disposal rates to increase.
Add to that the increased focus on sustainability and product lifecycle, and it is easy to see that it is only natural for the roofing industry to explore roof system recyclability. Not only can recycling reduce the disposal cost of old roofing materials, but it is also better for the environment; a win-win. Several states, cities, and municipalities, as well as roofing manufacturers, are turning to rooftop recycling as the next logical step when it comes to the disposal of existing roof systems.
During a 12-month period, Carlisle’s Rooftop Recycling Program kept over 5 million pounds of old roofing materials out of landfills and saved tens of thousands of dollars in disposal costs. The materials collected are shipped to recycling centers across the country to be used in the creation of new industrial products.
With Carlisle’s Roof System Recycling Program, your ballasted or mechanically fastened roof can be replaced with an energy-efficient, high-performance system, while helping the environment by keeping construction material out of local landfills. You also get peace of mind in knowing that the entire process is backed by Carlisle SynTec and its 50+ year history in the commercial roofing business.
The advantages of roof system recycling include:
- Helps to earn credits towards LEED® certification.
- Reduces the carbon footprint of the project.
- Diverts material from landfills.
SPECTIP
- Coordinate with Section 017419 – ‘Construction Waste Management and Disposal’ for the recycler receivers and processors available for your project location.
- Use Carlisle’s Recycling Reference Guide for various recyclers and their contact information for various roofing membranes, insulation types, and cover boards.
- Coordinate the special requirements for the handling or preparation of the recycled materials for the specific recycler to pick up, such as palletized membranes.
For additional information and recommendations refer to Carlisle’s Recycling Reference Guide.
You can also check out Carlisle's Recycling Program Sell Sheet.
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